Milestone Systems, known for its open platform video management software (VMS), has equipped Columbia Borough, Pennsylvania, with a comprehensive video security system through its Milestone XProtect® VMS, enhancing public safety across the community.
The security initiative, now in its 16th year, has evolved with the expertise of Lancaster-area security integrator App-Techs. This collaboration has resulted in a robust distributed wireless video network servicing the downtown area, public buildings, parks, and other key facilities within the borough. The system currently manages around 83 camera feeds, including 4K multi-lens and PTZ cameras from iPro.
Situated along the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County, Columbia is a historic borough with approximately 10,000 residents. As part of efforts to rejuvenate its downtown and appeal to new businesses, borough leaders prioritised safety and security.
Given the geographical diversity of Columbia, traditional wired infrastructure was deemed impractical. App-Techs addressed this by implementing a distributed wireless architecture, using XProtect as the core video management solution. Server operations are stationed within the municipal building and a remote park office, while officers can access live camera footage from patrol vehicle laptops. Mobile access further extends video coverage for personnel during community events.
Columbia’s dispatchers are the primary operators of XProtect, actively monitoring cameras and dispatching officers as needed. A notable incident involved a dispatcher identifying a theft in progress at a laundromat, leading to the immediate dispatch of officers.
“Our staff member observed someone breaking into a vending machine just outside that building and was able to dispatch officers to the scene,” stated Jack Brommer, Columbia Borough Police Department Chief. “Officers apprehended the individual, and it turns out this was a serial thief who had been breaking into vending machines across the tri-county area. So that single arrest helped resolve a number of thefts across multiple counties. That’s just the kind of impact this technology can have on a community.”
The system’s capabilities extend to holding cells and interview rooms at the police station, where cameras are integrated with microphones, and are also leveraged during large community events. For instance, during Columbia’s annual “Thunder on the River” antique car show, Emergency Management personnel used the camera network for proactive monitoring and swift incident response.
Columbia’s video system has contributed to reduced incident response times, better evidence for prosecutions, and improved situational awareness for dispatchers and officers. Security signage displayed in parks and public spaces serves as a visible deterrent.
Chief Brommer noted, “The data that I can point to is that we are trending downward, probably for the last five, six years, as far as call volume and crime trends. Those numbers have been very positive.” Looking forward, Columbia aims to integrate more advanced video analytics and object-search functionalities, enhancing investigation efficiency. Additionally, the borough is exploring the incorporation of emerging gunshot-detection technologies to bolster situational awareness further.
